Are you planning a trip to Mexico and looking for the pyramids in Mexico? If you have no idea, what are the famous pyramids in Mexico? This article will help you in finding the best pyramids in Mexico.
What is inside the Pyramid in Mexico? Archaeologists have investigated a number of rooms and tunnels in the Mexican Pyramid. Only a small portion of these chambers and tunnels have been explored, and the majority remain beyond limits to the general public.
Mexico stands out when it comes to archaeological marvels thanks to its majestic pyramids. These architectural wonders provide a fascinating look into the past in addition to showcasing the rich history and culture of Mesoamerican civilizations.
In Mexico, there are still a lot of magnificent artifacts that illustrate the magnificence of ancient cultures. Among these, the numerous pyramids that served as tributes to their planetary and animal gods are the most prominent.
We’ll take a virtual trip to the best pyramids in Mexico while reading this article. Prepare to be amazed by the beauty and mystery that await you in the land of the ancient pyramids, from the famous Chichen Itza to the hidden gem of Calakmul.
- Which Pyramid In Mexico Is The Largest?
- Here Are The List 11 Best Pyramids in Mexico For Travellers To Enjoy The Pyramid Experience
- 1. Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl- Tula
- 2. Pyramid Of The Magician- Uxmal
- 3. Temple of Kukulkan- Chichén Itzá
- 4. Pyramid Of The Niches- El Tajín
- 5. Pyramid of the Sun- Teotihuacan
- 6. Pyramid of the Moon- Teotihuacan
- 7. Nohoch Mul Pyramid- Coba
- 8. Great Pyramid of La Venta- La Venta
- 9. Monte Albán Pyramids- Oaxaca
- 10. Great Pyramid of Cholula- Puebla
- 11. Pyramid of the Inscriptions, Palenque
- FAQs About Best Pyramids in Mexico
- Q. What is the most famous Mayan pyramid in Mexico?
- Q. Is Chichen Itza better than Teotihuacan?
- Q. Which pyramids are bigger Mexico or Egypt?
- Q. Are all the pyramids open for climbing?
- Q. Are there guided tours available at the pyramid sites?
- Q. Can I visit multiple pyramid sites in a single trip?
- Q. Are there any rituals or events held at the pyramids?
- Q. Are there accommodations near the pyramid sites?
- Conclusion
- Tell Us In The Comments As per you Which One Is The Pyramids in Mexico?
Which Pyramid In Mexico Is The Largest?
The largest pyramid in Mexico is the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan. For those who are interested in pyramids, it is a must-see due to its enormous size and commanding presence.
Here Are The List 11 Best Pyramids in Mexico For Travellers To Enjoy The Pyramid Experience
After doing a lot of research and considering the tripper’s reviews we have shortlisted some of the best pyramids in Mexico
- Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl- Tula
- Pyramid Of The Magician- Uxmal
- Temple of Kukulkan- Chichén Itzá
- Pyramid Of The Niches- El Tajín
- Pyramid of the Sun- Teotihuacan
- Pyramid of the Moon- Teotihuacan
- Nohoch Mul Pyramid- Coba
- Great Pyramid of La Venta- La Venta
- Monte Albán Pyramids- Oaxaca
- Great Pyramid of Cholula- Puebla
- Pyramid of the Inscriptions, Palenque
1. Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl- Tula
The ancient capital of the Toltec civilization, Tula, often spelled Tollan, thrived from 950 to 1150 C.E. The third largest pyramid in Teotihuacan is the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, also known as the Temple of the Feathered Serpent.
The pyramid has six floors, but only 33 steps are visible at the front façade because most of the structure has been destroyed by erosion.
An accurate representation of Tula architecture is the temple pyramid. The five terraces’ sides are decorated with depictions of human faces and serpentine jaws.
- Height: Approximately 15 meters
- Location: Tula, Hidalgo, Mexico
- Notable Features: Decorated with serpent motifs
Also Read: Best Outfits Ideas For Mexico
2. Pyramid Of The Magician- Uxmal
During the late classical era, Uxmal was the most important urban and religious center in the Puuc hills of Yucatan. Between the 7th and the 10th centuries A.D., it was in vogue.
It was one of the most important Maya cities on the Yucatán Peninsula and one of its most significant. “Uxmal” refers to the several terminal classic architectural forms of this area and means “three times built.”
The three-level “Pyramid of the Magician” or “Pyramid of the Dwarf” was constructed in the ornate Puuc style.
Both names come from a myth involving a mythical dwarf who was born from an egg, grew to adulthood in a single day, and built the pyramid in a single night.
The “Pyramid of the Magician” is distinguished by its rounded sides, height, and steepness. Five older buildings constructed beneath the pyramid served as the foundation for the final tower.
It is a prime example of the astronomical knowledge that the inhabitants of the Maya metropolis that is now the best preserved had between the sixth and tenth centuries.
- Height: Approximately 35 meters
- Location: Uxmal, Yucatan, Mexico
- Notable Features: Elaborate facade with masks and sculptures
3. Temple of Kukulkan- Chichén Itzá
If you are considering a trip to Playa del Carmen or anywhere else on the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, you absolutely must visit the famed Chichén Itzá, one of the new seven wonders of the world.
Chichén Itzá served as the regional capital of the central and northern Yucatan peninsula during the ninth century and served as a significant trade hub.
“El Castillo” or “Temple of Kukulkan” is the name of this pyramid. The serpent God Kukulkan, one of Maya’s ultimate deities, inspired its name.
Each of the pyramid’s four sides has 91 steps that ascend close to 80 feet, and it is shaped like a feathered serpent bird.
The last step leading to Kukulkan’s revered temple is the platform at the summit. The shadow cast by the steps on the equinoxes of spring and fall is altered by the setting sun to resemble a serpent.
The 365 steps that make up the pyramid’s overall construction represent each day of the Mayan calendar’s year.
- Height: Approximately 30 meters
- Location: Chichén Itzá, Yucatan, Mexico
- Notable Features: Each side has 91 steps, making a total of 364 steps with the platform on top
4. Pyramid Of The Niches- El Tajín
The Mexican state of Veracruz is home to the Prehispanic metropolis of El Tajin, one of the first UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Between the ninth and thirteenth centuries, El Tajin flourished, notably following the collapse of the Teotihuacan empire and the ascent of the Aztec empire.
The city had a significant cultural impact on the Maya region and the broader Gulf Coast. There are other structures, temples, 60 courts, and palaces in this city. Still, the Pyramid of the Niches also referred to as the “Pyramid of Papantla,” “El Tajin,” and “Pyramid of the Seven Stories,” is by far the most magnificent. The pyramid is 66 feet or 20 meters tall.
The 365 niches piled in rows to form seven-tiered terraces and cover all four sides of the pyramid gave it its name. Each of the 365 niches represented a day of the year and served as a calendar.
- Height: Approximately 20 meters
- Location: El Tajín, Veracruz, Mexico
- Notable Features: Unique architectural style with numerous niches
5. Pyramid of the Sun- Teotihuacan
It is frequently thought that Teotihuacán, also known as “The City of Gods,” which lies 30 miles northeast of Mexico City, was one of the first significant metropolises in the western hemisphere. Teotihuacán once had a rich, influential culture.
Only three of the 200 pyramids that previously stood in the city remain today. The city thrived from 100 BCE to 550 CE when it was abruptly abandoned even before the arrival of the Europeans.
After many years, the Aztecs discovered the city’s magnificent constructions, which astounded them and led them to give the location the Teotihuacán, “the place where gods are born.”
Teotihuacán’s Pyramid of the Sun, which is 216 feet tall, is the tallest monumental building there. It has 248 steps that lead to the pyramid’s summit, which researchers think previously housed a temple.
It is also believed that the pyramid was originally the site of several magical rituals and ceremonies.
- Height: Approximately 65 meters
- Location: Teotihuacan, State of Mexico, Mexico
- Notable Features: One of the largest pyramids in the world
6. Pyramid of the Moon- Teotihuacan
The second largest pyramid in Teotihuacán is called the Pyramid of the Moon and was constructed between 200 and 450 A.D.
The Great Goddess, a goddess of water, fertility, and creation, is the object of worship at the Pyramid.
The adjacent peak of Cerro Gordo, which contains multiple pyramids placed on top of one another and features rooms used for burying, was created in contrast to the pyramids.
The Avenue of the Dead, a route that is 40 meters wide and 2.4 kilometers long, connects the city’s essential structures.
The Pyramid of the Sun is located about half a mile south of the Pyramid of the Moon and faces west, whereas the Pyramid of the Moon is located at the northern terminus of the same road and faces south.
- Height: Approximately 43 meters
- Location: Teotihuacan, State of Mexico, Mexico
- Notable Features: Located at the northern end of the Avenue of the Dead
7. Nohoch Mul Pyramid- Coba
Most of the Maya civilization’s remains may be found in Coba, in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. From 800 to 1100 CE, Coba was a thriving metropolis.
The pyramid at Nohoch-Mul is the second-tallest Maya pyramid and the tallest on the Yucatan Peninsula.
Sixteen separate roadways connect the adjacent communities, where there was once a bustling population of 50,000 people, starting from the Nohoch-Mul pyramid. The most extensive network of stone causeways has so far been found in Coba.
There are 120 stairs leading up to the top of the 137-foot-tall Nohoch-Mul pyramid, also known as the “great mound.” From there, tourists can enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding area and the twin lagoons from which Coba got its name.
The Ancient Pyramid, Pyramid of the Painted Lintel, Ixmoja, and La Iglesia are some of the many pyramids in Coba in addition to the Nohoch-Mul one.
All of these pyramids are very stunning. The surrounding vegetation and ruins give the structures a mysterious appearance.
- Height: Approximately 42 meters
- Location: Coba, Quintana Roo, Mexico
- Notable Features: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding jungle
8. Great Pyramid of La Venta- La Venta
La Venta, the oldest pyramid in Mexico, was constructed in approximately 900 B.C.E. and is located in Tobasco. The Olmec inhabitants of pre-Columbian Mexico made the clay-compacted pyramid.
Due to the clay’s gradual softening over many years, the pyramid’s original rectangular shape has changed to a round one. The pyramid stands 110 feet tall.
Archaeologists have long been fascinated by the enormous heads and basalt altars discovered at this location.
Numerous pyramid-related objects are currently on display at the Parque-Museo de la Venta museum, which is close to the pyramid site.
- Height: Approximately 34 meters
- Location: La Venta, Tabasco, Mexico
- Notable Features: Believed to be a part of a larger ceremonial complex
9. Monte Albán Pyramids- Oaxaca
From 500 B.C. until 800 A.D., the Zapotec civilization was centered in Monte Albán, which translates to “White Mountain,” and served as the capital of Oaxaca.
At this location, there are currently a staggering number of terraces, pyramids, and canals architectural remnants.
In the middle of the Oaxaca Valley, Monte Albán rises above the plain on a low mountain range. The Great Plaza, which continues to be supported by mound platforms at its north and south ends, is one of the outstanding buildings.
The Mixtec people eventually took control of Monte Albán after the collapse of the Zapotec civilization.
- Height: Varies, up to approximately 12 meters
- Location: Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
- Notable Features: Archaeological site with multiple pyramids and structures
10. Great Pyramid of Cholula- Puebla
The largest artificial pyramid in the world is located behind a mound of overgrown grass and plants at an old Aztec temple called the Great Pyramid of Cholula.
The Great Pyramid of Tepanapa, often called the Great Pyramid of Cholula, was constructed in the central American state of Puebla 2000 years ago.
The pyramid’s base comprises a vast network of tunnels and is four times bigger than the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Several civilizations repeatedly rebuilt the pyramid, but by the time the Spanish arrived, it was already buried in mud.
The Aztecs utilized the pyramid as a place of worship for a thousand years before relocating to another neighboring site.
The Aztecs thought that Xelhua, a giant from their mythology, had built the pyramid. The brick or baked mud pyramid, constructed without proper upkeep, was destroyed by the impacts of humid climates.
- Height: Approximately 66 meters
- Location: Cholula, Puebla, Mexico
- Notable Features: Largest pyramid by volume in the world
11. Pyramid of the Inscriptions, Palenque
Less because of their magnitude than because of the refinement of their design, the buildings of Palenque in the state of Chiapas are outstanding.
The word “inscriptions” refers to the temple atop the 89-foot-tall Pyramid of the Inscriptions, whose piers are covered in Maya hieroglyphs.
Even though archaeologists are still working on the site, it is estimated that just 10% of Palenque has been excavated. The most recent discovery was a stucco head of the corn deity Yum Kaax.
- Height: Approximately 25 meters
- Location: Palenque, Chiapas, Mexico
- Notable Features: Contains the tomb of the Mayan ruler Pakal the Grea
FAQs About Best Pyramids in Mexico
There are a lot of questions that come to mind while pyramids in Mexico, some of the commonly asked questions are answered below.
Q. What is the most famous Mayan pyramid in Mexico?
A. The most well-known Mayan pyramid in Mexico is Chichen Itza. The complex is enormous; in addition to the pyramid, you may view a lot more. But it is undoubtedly the main draw. It’s a bit tricky to get there.
Q. Is Chichen Itza better than Teotihuacan?
A. Teotihuacan is a pure old temple, but Chichen Itza contains an entire city constructed around the ancient temples. Chichen Itza is the place to go if you want to find out more about their way of life. Still, neither location is a bad choice.
Q. Which pyramids are bigger Mexico or Egypt?
A. The largest pyramid in the world is located in Mexico because it was formerly supposed to be a mountain and was covered with dirt and flora. Its foundation is four times as large as the Great Pyramid of Giza, with 450-meter sides.
Q. Are all the pyramids open for climbing?
A. No, not every pyramid allows climbing. Climbing the steps of some pyramids, such as Nohoch Mul in Coba is allowed; however, climbing El Castillo in Chichen Itza is no longer allowed in order to protect the integrity of the structure.
Q. Are there guided tours available at the pyramid sites?
A. Yes, the majority of pyramid sites offer guided tours led by knowledgeable docents who share their perspectives on local history and culture. Joining a guided tour might improve your experience and assist you in solving the mystery surrounding these historic buildings.
Q. Can I visit multiple pyramid sites in a single trip?
A. It is feasible to see several pyramid sites in one trip, especially if you strategically plan your itinerary. Mexico has great options for getting around, and because so many pyramid sites are close to one another, you may see several of them in a fair amount of time.
Q. Are there any rituals or events held at the pyramids?
A. During different seasons of the year, some pyramids, especially those with important historical and cultural significance, might host rituals or celebrations. Chichen Itza, for instance, is well-known for its fascinating equinox phenomenon. To find out whether any special events will be taking place while you are there, check with the local government or tour guides.
Q. Are there accommodations near the pyramid sites?
A. Yes, a lot of pyramid sites are close to places to stay, from luxurious resorts to low-cost hotels. Numerous pyramid sites are accessible from well-known tourist locations including Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Merida, which also provide a variety of hotel choices.
Conclusion
The pyramids of Mexico are not just works of art; they are also entrances to ancient civilizations where the mysteries of the past are revealed to us.
Every pyramid site, from the splendor of Chichen Itza to the buried riches of Calakmul, provides a distinctive window into the rich history and cultural legacy of Mexico.
Exploring the Best Pyramids in Mexico is a memorable experience that will leave you inspired and informed, regardless of whether you are an enthusiastic history lover or a curious visitor looking for adventure.
Pack your luggage, set out on an exploration expedition, and experience the wonders of these ancient pyramids firsthand. As you explore the mysteries and wonders of ancient Mexico, let the secrets of the past serve as your guide.
Tell Us In The Comments As per you Which One Is The Pyramids in Mexico?
Also, don’t forget to book your personalized holiday package with Fiery Trippers. Let us make your vacation a romantic as well as a dreamy getaway.
